Manila, Philippines – The government is set to construct 10 more modern fish ports in various regions across the country to provide more livelihood opportunities for fishermen.
This was assured by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as he led the inauguration of the rehabilitated Iloilo Fish Port Complex, a hub of trade and livelihood in Western Visayas, and considered the third largest landing site for various fish in the country.
The said port was developed in line with President Marcos’ vision for fish ports to be sustainable and climate-resilient.
It is equipped with a 390-kilowatt peak (kWp) Solar Photovoltaic (PV) system with solar panel modules installed in facilities such as the new market hall, refrigeration building, cold storage facility, commercial building, public toilet, and administration building.
Through the Solar Photovoltaic system, the port’s electricity consumption will be significantly reduced.
The President also stated that over 1,400 fishermen and traders will benefit from the upgraded port.
It is also expected that fish catch will increase by 30% by 2026.
The funding for the Fish Port came from the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority Multi-Year National Government Subsidy, with a total amount of ₱885 million.
Meanwhile, aside from the inauguration, the government also distributed various farm machinery and equipment worth ₱37 million.
Alongside this, the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) handed out indemnity checks to rice and corn farmers severely affected by the successive typhoons Crising, Dante, and Emong.